Building Custom Slate Walls/Caves

[Dan06]

I picked up some slate from Home Depot and broke it all up last night & now I'm looking to construct some walls & caves.

I made some in a bucket to see how stable it could be and it simply wasn't.

Do I need to use aquarium sealant for $4.95 a tube (which is a horrible rip off....) or is there any other prodcuts I can use??

 

[chaibill]

I believe you can find at home depot silicone sealant with out mildew fighting ingredients for a few dollars for the big tube. As this will kill your fish. not sure if there is a difference with the clear and the white maybe the white has calcium carbonate(chalk?) in it.

 

[mwelin]

We just built a slate wall, we used the GE Silicone 1 for windows and doors from Home Depot...I've seen several folks use it here.

 

[Bk718]

if you wont find GE then go for DAP aquarium silicone $3.50 for a 2.8oz tube. And trust me it will go you a long way, dont use 2 much silicone when putting the rocks together, just 2-3 peasize amount here and there per stone

 

[uscamaro]

I did the same thing with the slate. Unless you have bigger fish, such as chiclids, then you will need it. I have mine set up and it is completely stable. I have guppies, mollies, and danios.

 

[BoredAgain]

if you wont find GE then go for DAP aquarium silicone $3.50 for a 2.8oz tube. And trust me it will go you a long way, dont use 2 much silicone when putting the rocks together, just 2-3 peasize amount here and there per stone

I just got some DAP last night, went ahead and bought two tubes...though I doubt I'll need much of one for my caves. The HD here didn't have the GE I for windows and doors...but I've heard great stuff about DAP, so not disappointed with the cost difference at all.

 

[GuppyFan1]

Pics Please

Hope you'll post some pics when you are done. I've been considering doing the same thing and could use some inspiration.

 

[Dan06]

I have DAP silicone, but it doesn't say for Aquariums on it?

That would be nice if I could use it. Otherwise, I'll go looking for the GE silicone or anything that says Aquarium safe on it.

 

[BoredAgain]

Otherwise, I'll go looking for the GE silicone or anything that says Aquarium safe on it.

Either use GE Silicone I for windows and doors, or the DAP silicone for aquariums (says it on the packaging).

 

[Bk718]

Just make sure the slate is clean (no dust at all) and is fully washed and dried. Also make sure to let the silicone dry for atleast 3 days before you add it to the tank.

For those wondering which DAP to use if they cant find GE
Heres an image